12-Year-Old Boy Seriously Injured in E-Scooter Crash in Airlie Beach – January 17, 2025

What happened

Incident Overview

On Friday, January 17, 2025, a 12-year-old boy from Queensland was seriously injured in a collision involving an e-scooter and another vehicle in Airlie Beach. The young rider sustained severe injuries including the loss of his right big toe, a fractured femur, a fractured arm, and extensive skin abrasions.

Emergency services responded promptly, and the boy was airlifted to Townsville University Hospital where he was admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment of his injuries.

Location and Time

The collision occurred near the boy’s home in Airlie Beach, Queensland, at approximately 9:40 am on Friday morning, January 17, 2025.

Vehicles Involved

Vehicle 1

• Type: E-scooter
• Rider: 12-year-old boy from Queensland

Vehicle 2

• Type: Motor vehicle (details not specified in report)

Injuries / Fatalities

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• 12-year-old boy (loss of right big toe, fractured femur, fractured arm, extensive skin abrasions; airlifted to Townsville University Hospital, intensive care)

Community Impact

The incident has affected the local Airlie Beach community and the boy’s family, who travelled from their home in Inverell, NSW, to support him during his recovery. A GoFundMe campaign has been established by family friends to assist with accommodation, meals, living expenses, and medical costs during the boy’s extended treatment and rehabilitation.

Emergency Response

Emergency services attended the scene and rapidly assessed the severity of the boy’s injuries. The young rider was airlifted by helicopter to Townsville University Hospital and admitted directly to the intensive care unit for specialist treatment.

Investigation

The specific circumstances of the collision remain under investigation. The contributing factors to the crash, including speed, visibility, driver attention, and the actions of both the e-scooter rider and the driver of the other vehicle, are being examined as part of the investigation process.

Appeal for Information

Anyone who witnessed the collision in Airlie Beach on January 17, 2025, or who has information about the incident is encouraged to contact Queensland Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.